Second-hand child car restraints put kids in danger

Child safety advocates have renewed warnings about the risks of using second-hand child car restraints, as an inquest examined an eight-week-old baby's death in a car crash on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.

Child safety advocates have renewed warnings about the risks of using second-hand child car restraints, as an inquest examined an eight-week-old baby's death in a car crash on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.

Kidsafe Queensland says faulty or incorrectly used child restraints are putting babies, toddlers and children in danger of serious injury or death.

In handing down his findings this week, Coroner John Lock recommended that Standards Australia considers making it mandatory for capsules to be made with instruction booklets and warnings permanently attached.

"It has become evident to me as a result of a number of deaths involving children and various second-hand products, that a common factor has been that instruction manuals are not handed down bringing with it risks of incorrect installation of use," he told the inquest.

He said the Queensland Government should also conduct public awareness campaigns on the safe use of child restraints.

Hopes for change

The crash victims' family hopes changes prevent others from experiencing the pain they have felt.

Natalie Cardwell lost her daughter and grandaughter in the accident.

She says the crash has taken a heavy toll on the family.

"It's very horrific to have a police man come to you front door, telling you that your daughter's been killed in a car crash," she said.

"It's something that you just can't explain and it's something that's with you forever.

"The baby being wrapped in the blanket and in the car seat under the straps is something that we never thought about.

"It's something that maybe might have saved her, if she was not in the blanket first, so I think that's something that other parents need to be aware of."

Advice for parents

Despite the risks, Kidsafe Queensland says parents do not need to completely rule out using second-hand child restraints, but they should just take precautions.

Ms Teerds says many parents cannot afford to buy new ones, they should just beware of the risks of using second-hand restraints.

She says parents need to know the history and age of the child restraint and make sure it has all the necessary pieces including an instruction booklet.

Ms Teerds says they should not use one that has been involved in a crash, is more than 10 years old, or shows any signs of wear and tear.